Intelligent user interface with touch sensor technology

ABSTRACT

An electronic circuit including a microchip for use as an intelligent user interface also comprises touch sensor technology that differentiates between proximity and physical contact events to activate and control various loads including light bulbs, products with radio frequency circuitry or electric motors. An input to the microchip is connected to a switch or sensing structure that does not form a serial link between the power source and the load. The electronic circuit controls various functions in response to user actions including automatic delayed shut-off functions, find-in-the-dark indicator and a power source level/product state indications. The microchip allows the user to select specific functions based on the time duration of activation signals, the time duration between activation signals and the number of activation signals at the input. The microchip is further configured to interpret and react to the signals received from a user in a way that enhances ease of use of the product and to use the indicators to provide information to the user that is influenced by the signals received as well as the state of the product.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.10/961,373, filed Oct. 12, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,265,494, which is aContinuation-in-Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/806,860, filed Jul.2, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,984,900, which is a U.S. National Stage ofInternational Application No. PCT/ZA99/00107, filed Oct. 8, 1999, whichis a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/169,395, filedOct. 9, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,249,089.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to new intelligent electrical userinterface structures that includes capacitive sensor technology. Theinvention further relates, in one embodiment, to intelligent switcheshaving embedded therein a microchip for use with a variety of electricaldevices to add heretofore unknown functionality to existing electricaldevices. The invention also relates, according to another embodiment,user interfaces with capacitive sensing technology that differentiatesbetween proximity and physical contact events in order to achieve ahigher level of interpretation of the user actions by the switch andspecifically to provide information to the, user about the product, thestate of the product or guidance towards possible (likely) next actions.In another embodiment, the invention relates to low current switchescontrolled by microchips of the present invention for use in buildinglighting systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In conventional flashlights, manually-operated mechanical switchesfunction to turn the flashlight “on” and “off.” When turned “on,”battery power is applied through the closed switch to a light bulb; theamount of power then consumed depends on how long the switch is closed.In the typical flashlight, the effective life of the battery is only afew hours at most. Should the operator, after using the flashlight tofind his/her way in the dark or for any other purpose, then fail to turnit off, the batteries will, in a very short time, become exhausted.Should the flashlight be left in a turned-on and exhausted condition fora prolonged period, the batteries may then leak and exude corrosiveelectrolyte that is damaging to the contact which engages the batteryterminal as well as the casing of the flashlight.

When the flashlight is designed for use by a young child the likelihoodis greater that the flashlight will be mishandled, because a young childis prone to be careless and forgets to turn the flashlight “off” afterit has served its purpose. Because of this, a flashlight may be left“on” for days, if not weeks, and as a result of internal corrosion mayno longer be in working order when the exhausted batteries are replaced.

Flashlights designed for young children are sometimes in a lanternformat, with a casing made of strong plastic material that is virtuallyunbreakable, the light bulb being mounted within a reflector at thefront end of the casing and being covered by a lens from which a lightbeam is projected. A U-shaped handle is attached to the upper end of thecasing, with mechanical on-off slide switch being mounted on the handle,so that a child grasping the handle can readily manipulate the slideactuator with his/her thumb.

With a switch of this type on top of a flashlight handle, when the slideactuator is pushed forward by the thumb, the switch “mechanically”closes the circuit and the flashlight is turned “on” and remains “on”until the slide actuator is pulled back to the “off” position and thecircuit is opened. It is this type of switch in the hands of a childthat is most likely to be inadvertently left “on.”

To avoid this problem, many flashlights include, in addition to a slideswitch, a push button switch which keeps the flashlight turned on onlywhen finger pressure is applied to the push button. It is difficult fora young child who wishes, say to illuminate a dark corner in thebasement of his home for about 30 seconds, to keep a push buttondepressed for this period. It is therefore more likely that the childwill actuate the slide switch to its permanently-on position, for thisrequires only a momentary finger motion.

It is known to provide a flashlight with a delayed action switch whichautomatically turns off after a pre-determined interval. The MalloryU.S. Pat. No. 3,535,282 discloses a flashlight that is automaticallyturned off by a delayed action mechanical switch assembly that includesa compression spring housed in a bellows having a leaky valve, so thatwhen a switch is turned on manually, this action serves to mechanicallycompress the bellows which after a pre-determined interval acts to turnoff the switch.

A similar delayed action is obtained in a flashlight for childrenmarketed by Playskool Company, this delayed action being realized by aresistance-capicitance timing network which applies a bias to asolid-state transistor switch after 30 seconds or so to cut off thetransistor and shut off the flashlight. Also included in the prior art,is a flashlight previously sold, by Fisher-Price using an electronictiming circuit to simply turn off the flashlight after about 20 minutes.

It is also known, e.g. as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,875,147, toprovide a mechanical switch assembly for a flashlight which includes asuction cup as a delayed action element whereby the flashlight, whenmomentarily actuated by an operator, functions to connect a batterypower supply to a light bulb, and which maintains this connection for apre-determined interval determined by the memory characteristics of thesuction cup, after which the connection is automatically broken.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,138,538 discloses a flashlight having the usualcomponents of a battery, and on-off mechanical switch, a bulb, and ahand-held housing, to which there is added a timing means and acircuit-breaking means responsive to the timing means for cutting offthe flow of current to the bulb, which further has a by-pass means,preferably child-proof, to direct electric current to the light bulbregardless of the state of the timing means. The patent also providesfor the operation of the device may be further enhanced by making theby-pass means a mechanical switch connected so as to leave it in serieswith the mechanical on-off switch. Furthermore, the patent discloses alock or other “child-proofing” mechanism may be provided to ensure thatthe by-pass is disabled when the flashlight is switched off.

Most conventional flashlights, like those described above, are actuatedby mechanical push or slide button-type switches requiring, of course,mechanical implementation by an operator. Over time, the switch suffers“wear and tear” which impairs operation of the flashlight as a resultof, for example, repeated activations by the operator and/or due to thefact that the switch has been left “on” for a prolonged period of time.In addition, such mechanical switches are vulnerable to the effects ofcorrosion and oxidation and can cause said switches to deteriorate andto become non-functioning. In addition, these prior art devices havingthese mechanical switches are generally “dumb,” i.e. they do not providethe user with convenient, reliable, and affordable functionalities whichtoday's consumers now demand and expect.

The prior art switches typically provide two basic functions in priorart flashlights. First, the mechanical switches act as actual conductorsfor completing power circuits and providing current during operation ofthe devices. Depending upon the type of bulb and wiring employed, theintensity of electrical current which must be conducted by the switch isgenerally quite high leading to, after prolonged use, failure. Second,these mechanical switches must function as an interface between thedevice and its operator, i.e. the man-machine-interface (“MMI”) andnecessarily requires repeated mechanical activations of the switch whichover time mechanically deteriorate.

Also, currently the electrical switches used in buildings/houses forcontrol of lighting systems are of the conventional type of switcheswhich must conduct, i.e. close the circuit, upon command, thus alsoproviding the MMI. These prior art switches suffer from the samedisadvantages as the switches described above in relation to portableelectronic devices, like flashlights. Moreover, the switches arerelatively dumb in most cases and do not provide the user with a varietyof functions, e.g. but not limited to timing means to enable a user, forexample, a shop owner or home owner to designate a predetermined shutoff or turn on point in time.

There is a need for inexpensive, reliable, and simple intelligentelectronic devices which provide increased functionality and energyconservation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provideda microchip controlled switch to manage both the current conductingfunctions and the MMI functions in an electronic device, such as aflashlight, on a low current basis i.e. without the MMI device having toconduct or switch high current. According to one aspect of theinvention, the MMI functions are controlled by very low current signals,using touch pads, or carbon coated membrane type switches. These lowcurrent signal switches of the present invention can be smaller, morereliable, less costly, easier to seal and less vulnerable to the effectsof corrosion and oxidation. Moreover, since the switch is a solid statecomponent, it is, according to the present invention, possible tocontrol the functions of the device in an intelligent manner by the samemicrochip which provides the MMI functions. Thus, by practicing theteachings of the present invention, more reliable, intelligent, andefficient electrical devices can be obtained which are cheaper andeasier to manufacture than prior art devices.

According to another embodiment of the invention, there is provided amicrochip which can be embedded in a battery that will lend intelligenceto the battery and thus, the device it is inserted into, so that manyfunctions, including but not limited to, delayed switching, dimming,automatic shut off, and intermittent activation may be inexpensivelyrealized in an existing (non intelligent) product, for example a priorart flashlight.

According to a further embodiment, the invention provides a power savingmicrochip which, when operatively associated with an electronic device,will adjust the average electric current through a current switch,provide an on and off sequence which, for example, but not limited to,in the case of a flashlight, can be determined by an operator and mayrepresent either a flash code sequence or a simple on/off oscillation,provide an indication of battery strength, and/or provide a gradualoscillating current flow to lengthen the life of the operating switchand the power source.

According to one embodiment of the invention, an intelligent flashlight,having a microchip controlled switch is provided comprising a microchipfor controlling the on/off function and at least one other function ofthe flashlight. According to a further embodiment of the invention, anintelligent flashlight having a microchip controlled switch is providedcomprising an input means for sending activating/deactivating signals tothe microchip, and a microchip for controlling the on/off function andat least one other function of the flashlight. According to a furtherembodiment of the invention, there is provided an intelligent flashlighthaving a microchip controlled switch comprising an input means forselecting one function of the flashlight, a microchip for controlling atleast the on/off function and one other function of the flashlight,wherein the microchip control circuit may further comprise acontrol-reset means, a clock means, a current switch, and/or any one orcombination of the same.

According to another embodiment of the invention, there is provided abattery for use with an electrical device comprising a microchipembedded in the battery. According to still a further embodiment of theinvention, a battery for use with an electronic device is providedcomprising a microchip embedded in the battery wherein said microchip isadapted such that an input means external to the microchip can selectthe on/off function and at least one other function of the electronicdevice.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is providedan intelligent battery for use with an electronic device, the batteryhaving positive and negative terminal ends and comprising a microchipembedded in the battery, preferably in the positive terminal end, forcontrolling on/off functions and at least one other function of theelectronic device.

According to another embodiment of the invention, there is provided aportable microchip device for use in serial connection with a powersource, e.g. an exhaustible power source, and an electronic devicepowered by said source wherein said electronic device has an input meansfor activating and deactivating said power source, and said microchipcomprising a means for controlling the on/off function and at least oneother function of the electronic device upon receipt of a signal fromsaid input means through said power source.

According to a still further embodiment of the invention, there isprovided a microchip adapted to control lighting in buildings. Accordingto this embodiment, the normal switch on the wall that currentlyfunctions as both a power-switch i.e. conduction of electricity, and MMIcan be eliminated, thus eliminating the normal high voltage and highcurrent dangerous wiring to the switch and from the switch to the loador light. Utilizing the present invention, these switches can bereplaced with connecting means suitable for low current DC requirements.

According to another embodiment, the present invention is directed to abattery comprising an energy storage section, a processor, e.g. amicrochip and first and second terminal ends. The first terminal endbeing connected to the energy storage section, the second terminal endbeing connected to the processor, and the processor being connected tothe second terminal end and the energy storage section. The processorcontrols the connection of the second terminal end to the energy storagesection.

According to another embodiment, the present invention provides anelectronic apparatus which includes an electrical device, comprising apower supply, an activating/deactivating means, and a processor. Theactivating/deactivating means is connected to the processor and theprocessor is connected to the power supply. The processor controls theon/off function of the device and at least one other function of thedevice in response to signals received from the activation/deactivationmeans.

The present invention, according to a still further embodiment, providesa flashlight comprising a light source, an energy storage means, aswitch means, and a processor means. The switch means being incommunication with the processor means and the processor means being incommunication with the energy storage means which is ultimately incommunication with the light source. The processor controls theactivation/deactivation of the light source and, in some embodiments,further functions of the flashlight, in response to signals receivedfrom the switch means.

While the present invention is primarily described in this applicationwith respect to either a flashlight or a battery therefore, theembodiments discussed herein should not be considered limitative of theinvention, and many other variations of the use of the intelligentdevices of the present invention will be obvious to one of ordinaryskill in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic of a device having a microchip controlled pushbutton or sliding type input activation/deactivation switch according toone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a microchip for use in association with apush button or sliding input activation/deactivation switch according toone embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic of a second type of intelligent device having amicrochip controlled push button or sliding type inputactivation/deactivation switch according to another embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic of a device having a microchip controlled touchpad or carbon coated membrane activation/deactivation switch accordingto a still further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a microchip for use in association with atouch pad or carbon coated membrane activation/deactivation switchaccording to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic of a second type of device having a microchipcontrolled touch pad or carbon coated membrane activation/deactivationswitch according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a schematic of a battery having embedded therein a microchipaccording to a further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8A is a block diagram of a microchip for use in a battery accordingto one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8B is a block diagram of a second type of microchip for use in abattery according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a schematic of a device having a microchip controlled switchaccording to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a schematic of a device having a microchip controlled switchaccording to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic of a device having a microchip controlled switchaccording to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a schematic of a flashlight having therein a microchipcontrolled switch according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a possible position, according to one embodiment ofthe present invention of a microchip in a battery;

FIG. 14 is a schematic of one embodiment of the present invention of alow current switching device suitable for lighting systems in buildings;

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the present invention,i.e. microchip 1403 of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram for a microchip as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 fora delayed shut off function embodiment of one embodiment of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram for a microchip as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 afor a delayed shut off function embodiment of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

According to one embodiment or aspect of the present invention, andreferring to FIG. 1, a schematic depiction of main circuit 100 of anelectronic device, for example, a flashlight, is provided, wherein thedevice has a microchip 103 and a microchip controlled inputactivator/deactivator 102, for example, a push button or sliding switch.Main circuit 100 of the device is powered by a current supplied by powersource 101. Power source 101 may be any power source, e.g. a DC battery,as is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. While thefollowing discussion is limited to specific electronic devices, that isflashlights, it is to be understood that the following description isequally applicable to other electronic devices including portableradios, toys, for example but not limited to battery operated cars,boats, planes, and/or other electrically powered toys.

Referring to FIG. 1, when an operator activates input push button orsliding command switch 102 to the “on” position, the microchip 103receives a signal. Switch 102 is a direct electrical input to microchip103. Microchip 103 is grounded by grounding means 104. Microchip 103 isin series between power source 101 and load 105. Microchip 103 alsotransfers sufficient power through means of a current switch (not shownin FIG. 1) to load 105 which can be, for example, a resistor-type bulbin the case of a flashlight to provide illumination.

The microchip 103, and other microchips of the present invention, canhave its/their intelligence embedded in combinational or sequentiallogic, a PLA or ROM type structure feeding into a state machine or atrue microcontroller type structure. The memory for the above willnormally be non-volatile, but should there be a need for selectableoptions, EE or flash memory structures may be used.

The structure and operational parameters of such a microchip 103 areexplained in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 2. As shown inFIG. 1, power is supplied to microchip 103 by power source 101. When anoperator activates input switch 102 to the “on” position it represents acommand which is communicated to microchip 103. Input means 102 requiresvery low current in preferred embodiments. In one embodiment of theinvention, microchip control/reset means 201 simply allows the currentswitch 202 to pass current provided from power source 101 to load 105 inan unimpeded manner when the MMI switch 102 is activated, and, in thecase of a flashlight, illumination is obtained. It is important torecognize, however, that it is control circuit 201 which activatescurrent switch 202 upon acting on an input from MMI switch 102. Unlikeheretofore known prior art devices, activating switch 102 does notconduct current to load 105, but is only a command input mechanism whichcan, according to the invention, operate on very low current. Forexample, according to the invention, touch sensor input or carbon coatedmembrane type switch devices are preferred.

If, for example, an emergency notification function is desired, theflashlight may be designed to alternately flash on and off every second.First, the operator activates input 102 into the appropriate position toindicate such a function is desired. During the “on” segment of theflashing routine, control/reset means 201 commands current switch 202 toclose and let current flow through to load 105, thereby causing, in thecase of a flashlight, the bulb to illuminate. Simultaneously,control/reset means 201 uses the timing means 203 as a clock for timing.After control/reset means 201 determines one second has elapsed,control/reset means 201 instructs current switch 202 to open andinterrupt the current flow through to load 105, and bulb illumination isdiscontinued. It is important to note that both control/reset means 201and current switch 202 are still active and fully powered; however,current delivery is now latent with respect to load 105. When anothersecond has elapsed, a command is passed from control/reset means 201which again allows current to be delivered through current switch 202 toload 105, and in the case of a flashlight, bulb illumination isimmediately resumed. The device continues an alternating currentdelivery routine until either the operator switches the setting of theactivating input switch 102 to the “off” position, or until theconditions pre-programmed into the microchip, e.g. into thecontrol/reset means 201, are satisfied and current delivery ispermanently discontinued.

Similar operating routines can be employed to generate other conspicuousflashing functions such as the generation of the universal distresssignal S.O.S. in Morse code. Again, such a function would require thatthe microchip, e.g. control/reset means 201, be pre-programmed with theappropriate code for creating such a signal, and to permit currenttransmission from switch 202 to load 105 in accordance with the codewith the assistance of timing means 203. For example, it may bedesirable to have an S.O.S. sequence wherein flashes representing eachindividual letter are separated by time intervals ranging from one-half(½) second to one (1) full second, while the interval between eachletter in the code comprises two (2) full seconds. After a certainnumber of repetitions of the routine, again determined by the operatoror as pre-programmed within the microchip, e.g. within the control/resetmeans 201, the signal is discontinued.

As shown in FIG. 3, it is possible to remove grounding means 104 frommain circuit 100. However, it is then necessary to intermittentlyprovide an alternative power source for microchip 103 and to create avirtual ground reference level. A suitable microchip 103 for thisconfiguration is described in greater detail below with respect to FIGS.8A and 8B.

Referring now to FIG. 4, utilizing the circuits in the microchip of someembodiments of the present invention, carbon coated membrane or touchpad type switches are preferred. Carbon coated membrane switches andtouch pad switches have many advantages over conventional high currentswitches, such as those currently used in flashlights. According to thepresent invention, carbon coated membrane type switches, low currenttype switches, and touch pad type switches can be used which may besmaller, less costly, easier to seal, and less vulnerable to corrosionand oxidation than conventional switches which also transfer energy orcurrent to the load. Moreover, according to one embodiment of thepresent invention, carbon coated membrane type switches, touch padswitches, or low current type switches can be formed structurallyintegral with the product, for example, with the casing of a flashlight.

A block diagram showing microchip 103 for use, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention, in association with a carbon coatedmembrane, a touch pad switch, or a low current type switch 106 is nowexplained in greater detail in respect to FIG. 5. According to this oneembodiment of the present invention, current switch 202 is powereddirectly by grounded power source 101. However, output of current fromcurrent switch 202 to load 105 is dependent on control/reset means 201.When an operator depresses touch pad 106, carbon coated membrane switch106 or low current type switch 106, control/reset means 201 allowscurrent switch 202 to flow current through to load 105. However, in moreintelligent applications according to certain embodiments of the presentinvention, control/reset means 201 will coordinate, based on clockand/or timing means 203, to execute timing routines similar to thosedescribed above such as, but not limited to, intermittent flashing, theflashing of a conspicuous pattern such as Morse code, dimming functions,battery maintenance, battery strength/level, etc.

FIG. 16 is a flow diagram for a microchip 103 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5and provides a delayed shutoff function. The flow sequence commences atSTART when the power source 101 is connected to the microchip 103, asshown in FIG. 4. The sequence of operation is substantiallyself-explanatory and is not further elaborated herein.

As shown in FIG. 6, grounding means 104 can be removed from the systemas a matter of design choice. A more detailed description of a suitablemicrochip 103 for this type of configuration is provided below withrespect to FIGS. 8A and 8B.

Referring to FIG. 7, certain embodiments of the present invention alsoprovide for a battery having a microchip embedded for use in associationwith an electronic device. As shown, direct current is provided tomicrochip 103 by power source 101. When activating input switch 102 isclosed, current is complete and power is transferred to load 105 at thedirection of microchip 103. Microchip 103 embedded in the battery canhave any number of intelligent functions pre-programmed therein, suchas, for example but not limited to, battery strength monitoring,recharging, adjustment of average current through a current switch,intermittent power delivery sequences, and so on. Examples of suitablemicrochips 103 for this type of application are discussed below withreference to FIGS. 8A and 8B.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are block diagrams of two different further embodimentsof the present invention. Microchip 803 is especially suitable forapplications wherein microchip 803 is not grounded through the body ofthe electrical device or where a ground cannot otherwise be establishedbecause of design considerations. This embodiment is useful to providesufficient operating power to the microchip and can be achieved byperiodically opening and closing current switch 202 when activationinput switch 102 is closed. For example, referring to FIG. 8A, wheninput switch 102 is closed but current switch 202 does not conduct (thatis, the switch is open and does not allow current to flow to load 105),then voltage drop over load 105 is zero and in the case of a flashlight,no illumination is provided from the bulb. Instead, the full voltagedrop is over current switch 202 and in parallel with the diode 204 andcapacitor 205. Once capacitor 205 becomes fully charged, current switch202 can close and circuit 103 will be powered by capacitor 205. Whencircuit 803 is adequately powered, it functions in a manner identical tothe circuits described previously with respect to the functions providedby control/reset means 201 and timing means 203.

When the charging capacitor 205 starts to become depleted, control/resetmeans 201 will recognize this state and reopen the current switch 203,thus briefly prohibiting the flow of current to load 105, in order toremove the voltage drop from load 105 and allow capacitor 205 torecharge and begin a new cycle. In a flashlight application, the timeperiod wherein current flow from current switch 202 is discontinued canbe such that the dead period of the light is not easily or not at alldetectable by the human eye. In the case of a high current usage load,such as a flashlight, it means the ratio of the capacitance of thecapacitor having to power the microchip and the current consumption ofthe microchip, must be such that the capacitor can power the microchipfor a long time relative to the charging time (202 open). This willenable the flashlight's “off” time to be short and the “on” time to belong, thus not creating a detectable or intrusive switching of theflashlight to the user.

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram for a microchip as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8which also provides a delayed shutoff function. The flow diagram issubstantially self-explanatory and the flow sequence commences at STARTwhen closure of the switch 102 takes place from an open position.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, e.g. inrelation to another product of low current consumption, such as a FMradio, the designer may opt for a capacitive (reservoir) deviceexternally to the microchip (see FIG. 11). In this case, the electricaldevice may function for a time longer than the time required forcharging the capacitor (205, 207) which is when the current switch (202)is open and not conducting current.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, an output maybe provided to indicate a condition, e.g. a battery is in good or badcondition. It may also be suitable to assist in locating a device, e.g.but not limited to a flashlight, in the dark. This may be a separateoutput pin or may be, according to another embodiment, shared with theMMI switch input. (See FIG. 11) This output or indicator may be a LED.Referring to FIG. 11, indicator/output device 1104 may, for example, bean LED. When microchip 1113 pulls the line 1114 to high, the LED 1104shines. LED 1104 may also shine when switch 1111 is closed by the user.However, since that is only a momentary closure, this should not createa problem.

According to a further specific embodiment of the invention, referringto FIG. 11, microchip 1113 can activate the LED 1104 for a short time,e.g. for 100 milliseconds, every 10 seconds. This indication will letpotential users know the device is in a good state of functionality andwill enable fast location of the device in the dark, e.g. in times ofemergency. The low duty cycle will also prevent unnecessary batterydepletion.

With an alternative embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8Billustrates the charging and discharging of capacitor 207 to providepower to circuit 803, wherein the diode and capacitor structureestablishes a ground reference for circuit 803.

Each of the embodiments explained with respect to FIGS. 8A and 8B aresuitable for use, according to the present invention, depending upon theapplication. Indeed, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B can bedirectly embedded into a battery and/or can be separately constructed inanother portable structure, e.g. but not limited to, in the shape of adisc, about the size of a quarter, to be inserted at the end of thebattery between the output means or positive terminal of the battery andthe current receiving structure of the electronic device. As described,the embodiments shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B can be utilized with the priorart high current switches currently being utilized in simplenon-intelligent electronic devices, for example flashlights, radios andtoys. For example, in the case of a portable simple radio without anyintelligence, an automatic shut “off” may be achieved by using theintelligent battery or portable microchip of the present inventionhaving a timing function to automatically shut off the radio after agiven period of time, i.e. after the user is asleep.

The architecture of the two embodiments of the present invention shownin FIGS. 8A and 8B provide certain advantages over the simple dumbarchitecture in current simple electrical devices, for example,flashlights. Due to the unique design of the microchips, as shown inFIGS. 8A and 8B, after the device (into which the microchip isincorporated) is shut off the microchip remains powered for anadditional period of time which allows for said microchip to thusreceive additional commands, for example, a second “on” activationwithin a given period after a first “on” and “off” activation, may beprogrammed into the microchip (control/reset means) to indicate a powerreduction or dimming function or any other function as desired by thedesigner of said device. This is accomplished by the inventive designsof the present invention without having to utilize substantial energyfrom what are typically small exhaustible power sources, e.g. DCbatteries in the case of flashlights.

According to some embodiments of the present invention, more intelligentdevices include many other useful functions pre-programmed within themicrochip, e.g. in control/reset means 201 and may, e.g. be assisted bya timing means 203. Referring to FIG. 2, commands can be entered throughswitch 102 in several different ways. First, various time sequences ofclosed and open activations may represent different commands. Forexample, but not limited to, a single closure may instruct microchip 103to activate current switch 202 continuously for a pre-determined lengthof time. Alternatively, two successive closures may instruct themicrochip 103 to intermittently activate current switch 202 for apre-determined length of time and sequence, for example, a S.O.S.sequence.

Secondly, referring to FIG. 9, commands may be communicated to microchip903 through the use of various voltages recognizable by microchip 903 torepresent various commands. For example, but not limited to, accordingto one embodiment of the present invention, it may include multipleactivating switches 901 and 902 connecting different voltages to thecommand input structure of microchip 903.

Thirdly, referring to FIG. 10, commands may be communicated to microchip1103 through the use of multiple specific switches (1004, 1005, 1006,1007) which when activated either singularly or in combination is/arerecognizable by microchip 1103 as representing various differentcommands.

As can be seen by FIG. 9, switch 901 and 902 and in FIG. 10, switches1004, 1005, 1006, and 1007, power or ground may be used as a commandreference voltage level. For example, the switches in FIG. 10 may beconnected to another ground instead of point 1008 depending on theinternal structure of the microchip.

The control/reset means included in the inventive microchips of thepresent invention may and in some instances, depending upon theapplication, should in addition to the many possible user functionsdescribed above, include means for adjusting the average current over aswitch and/or a means for providing a gradual “on”/“off” current flow,so that the operator does not appreciably perceive the increase anddecrease in light provided by the device. These features allow for anongoing variable level of lighting as desired by an operator, and mayalso lengthen the life span of the activation switch, the bulb, and thepower source. Moreover, several functions can now be added to anexisting device, like a flashlight, through the use of a battery havingembedded therein a microchip according to the present invention.

In another embodiment of the invention, the microchip is adapted tocontrol lighting in buildings. The normal switch on the wall thatcurrently functions as both a power-switch and MMI can be replaced by alow current switching device like a membrane switch, touch pad or carboncoated switching device. Since very low currents are required by the MMIswitch (device) that replaces the normal wall mounted (A/C) switch, itis possible to replace the normal high voltage/current (dangerous)wiring to the switch and from the switch to the lead (light), withconnectivity means suitable to the new low current DC requirements. Assuch, in the case of normal A/C wiring (110V/220V), the dangerous wiringcan now be restricted to the roof or ceiling and all switches (MMI's)can inherently be safe. This may make the expensive and regulated safetypiping required for the wiring of electricity to wall switchesredundant.

In a specific embodiment, the traditional wiring between the light andthe wall switch is replaced by flexible current conducting tape that canbe taped from the roof and down the wall to the required location. Inanother embodiment, the connections can be made by current conductingpaint or similar substances. In both cases above, it can be painted overwith normal paint to conceal it. This makes changing the location of awall switch or the addition of another switch very easy.

The microchip according to the present invention can be located in thepower fitting of the light. The microchip having the low current (MMI)input and a power switch to block or transfer the energy to the load(light, fan, air conditioner). It reacts to the inputs received toactivate or disable, or control other functions, of whatever device itis controlling.

The microchip may be adapted to contain the high current/voltage switchor control an external switching device or relay. The microchip mayalso, as in the other embodiments discussed, have some intelligence tocontrol functions like dimming, delayed shut off, timedactivation/deactivation, timed cycles, flashing sequences and gradualon/off switching. The microchip may also be adopted, as in a specificflashlight embodiment discussed, to provide a location/emergency signalfor lighting/flashing an LED.

FIG. 12 shows a flashlight 1200 with a housing 1202, batteries 1204, abulb 1206, a reflector and lens 1208, a switch 1210 and a microchip1212. The flashlight has a conventional appearance but its operation isbased on the microchip 1212 controlling the operation of the switch1210, as described hereinbefore.

FIG. 13 illustrates that a battery 1300 with positive and negativeterminals 1302 and 1304 respectively, and of substantially conventionalshape and size, can be fabricated with an integral microchip 1306, ofthe type described hereinbefore. Alternatively the microchip can bemounted to the battery, for example by being inserted into a preformedcavity. As the microchip is inserted into the cavity it makes contactwith the positive and negative terminals on the battery. The microchipalso carries external terminals so that when the battery is insertedinto an appliance (not shown) it makes direct contact with correspondingterminals on the appliance so that the microchip is automaticallyconnected in circuit.

The power input 101 in FIG. 14 may be DC (e.g. 12V) as is commonly usedfor some lights or A/C (110V or 240V). The device shown as 1403 may bemonolithic or be a multichip unit having a relay (solid state ormechanical), a regulator (e.g.: 110 AC volt to 12V DC) and a microchipas discussed in this application.

In a specific embodiment, Ic pin 1406 can normally be high and a closureof input means 1402, e.g. any of the low current switching devicesdescribed above, can be detected as Ic pin 1405 also goes too high. Toflash the LED 1404 the microchip will reverse the polarities so that Icpin 1405 becomes high with regards to Ic pin 1406. During this time, itmay not be possible to monitor the closure of the input 1402 switch andthe LED 1404 may not shine should the input 1402 be closed. In anotherembodiment, microchip 1403 is able to detect closure of input 1402before reversing the voltage polarity as discussed and if it detectsclosure, it does not proceed with reversing the polarity.

Reference 1407 denotes an MMI wall unit, and reference 1408 denotes ahigh voltage roof unit.

In FIG. 15, microchip 1503 does not contain a current switch (e.g.switch 102) as shown in FIG. 2. However, if desired the regulator andrelay can be integrated into a single monolithic microchip 1503. In caseof a 12V (DC) local voltage this may be done in any event unless thecurrent/power considerations is too high to make it practical.

In another embodiment, the microchips 1403 and 1503 are adapted toreceive commands not only via the MMI input but also over the load power(electricity) wiring. This would allow a central controller 1506 to sendout various commands to various power points, controlled by a microchipaccording to this invention, by using address information of specificmicrochips or using global (to all) commands.

Referring again to FIG. 1, and this being done purely for the sake ofexample, the microchip 103 is activated by sliding or activating aswitch 102. It is apparent that different switches can be provided fordifferent functions of the microchip. However, in order to enhance theuser-friendliness of the device, a single switch may be capable ofcontrolling different functions of an appliance such as a flashlight towhich the microchip is mounted.

Assume for the sake of example that the switch 102 is used to turn themicrochip on in the sense that a flashlight is turned on. A switch 110may then be used at any time to turn the flashlight off, byappropriately controlling operation of the microchip. This is aconventional approach to controlling operation of the microchip. As analternative the operation of the switch 102 can be sensed by means of atiming device 112. The timing device is started when the switch 102 isclosed and after a short time period, say on the order of 5 seconds orless, which is measured by the timing device, the mode or function ofthe switch 102 changes so that, upon further actuation of the switch102, the switch duplicates the function of the switch 110 which cantherefore be dispensed with. Thus, initially the switch 102 functions asan on-switch while, a short period after its actuation, the switch 102functions as an off-switch. It follows that with minor modifications tothe circuitry of the microchip a single switch can exhibit multi-modecapabilities with the different modes being distinguished from eachother or being exhibited on a time basis or, if necessary, on any otherbasis.

Multimode capabilities can for example be incorporated in a microchipwherein the function of a switch is also linked to time. In this sensethe word “function” means the action which ensues or results upon thedetection of the closure of the switch. For example a single switch may,from an off state of a flashlight, enable (a) the switching on of theflashlight and (b) the selection of one of a number of various modeslike dimming level, flashing rate/sequence etc. when the switch isclosed a number of times.

If however a certain time is allowed to pass (say five seconds) withoutany further closure of the switch taking place (indicating a mode hasbeen selected), the function resulting from the next closure may bechanged. Thus instead of selecting another mode, the closure may beinterpreted as an “off” command.

In other words a sequence of switch closures within five seconds of eachother will continue to step the microchip through a number of predefinedmodes. However should at any stage a time of more than five secondselapse between consecutive presses or closures of the switch then thenext switch operation will switch the flashlight off rather thanstepping the microchip to another mode.

Clearly these characteristics are not confined to the use of the chipwith a flashlight for the chip can be used with other applications tovary the mode of operation thereof in an analogous way. Thus, for theflashlight, the function of the switch will affect the operation of theflashlight in a manner which is dependent on the time period betweensuccessive actuations of the switch. More generally, in any electricaldevice which is controlled by means of the microchip the operation ofthe device will be regulated by the function which is exhibited by aswitch which is in communication with the microchip. The switch functionin turn is dependent on the duration of a time period between successiveoperations of the switch.

Other modes can also be exhibited by a single switch. For example,depending on requirement, a switch can be used for on and off operation,for initiating the transmission of an emergency signal, for initiatingthe gradual dimming of a flashlight or the like. The scope of theinvention is not limited in this regard.

In the preceding description reference has been made to a touch sensorand to a non-latching push button or latching MMI switch. Thesecomponents and technologies relating thereto may be combined in certainembodiments to achieve specific operational features that may beattractive to the user in that certain comforts or user friendliness maybe facilitated.

In certain embodiments the touch sensor interface/switch 106 (see FIGS.4 and 6) that allows the user to operate and select functions may alsoallow the user to select or give a signal to the microchip 103 based onproximity and not necessarily physical touch or contact. This feature isan inherent characteristic of some touch sensor or touch padtechnologies, for example of the type described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,730,165 and 6,466,036.

It is then also feasible to define a user interface that accepts bothtouch sensor signals as well as electromechanical switch andspecifically push button switch signals. The signals may be used toselect the same functions or in some embodiments the different MMItechnologies may be used to select different functions or operationalmodes.

In a specific embodiment in accordance with the general concepts of thisinvention, a module comprises the energy consuming load 105 (for examplea bulb, LED or other light generating element), and the microchip 103,which in accordance with principles already described controls thevarious functions or operational modes at least in response to signalsreceived from the touch sensor and (traditional) switch interfaces aswell as a find-in-the-dark (FITD) indication. The FITD indication may bethe energy consuming load 105 or another separate element creating avisible, audible or other human detectable signal that would assist aperson to locate a product containing the abovementioned elements or theMMI switch in particular, for example in the dark.

An example, that is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of thisinvention, may be an interior light for passenger convenience of anautomobile or other transportation vehicle such as a boat or a plane.

In one embodiment the interior (courtesy) light is interfaced with theuser (MMI) via either a touch sensor and/or an electromechanical switch,such as a push-to-make (push button) type switch, hereinafter called apb switch. The interior light can be placed in various operational modesand functions under control of the microchip 103: for example thearrangement may provide an automatic delayed shut off function; and aFITD indicator function that also gives an indication of inputs whichare received via the MMI interface and which enables the selection of anoperational mode based on the various activation and/or deactivation (ofthe MMI switch) time sequences.

In another embodiment of this example the module comprising the lightgenerating element, the microchip 103 and the FITD indicator have atleast a pb MMI as well as a touch sensor MMI. The latter may be acapacitive technology based sensor as is known in the art (See forexample the disclosures in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,730,165 and 6,466,036). Thistouch sensor is capable of giving an indication of, for example, a humanhand being in the proximity of the sensor even if no physical contactbetween the sensor and the hand is made.

As an example of possible operation, the microchip 103 may use thesignals received from the touch sensor indicating proximity of part ofthe body of the user, such as a hand, to activate the FITD indicator ina way that is different from when no proximity detection is occurring.Thus the FITD indicator that is normally off or flashing with a low dutycycle or activated in a low energy mode, may be activated in a constanton mode of a higher energy level. It is also possible in an embodimentto control the energy level, and hence the intensity of light or soundof the FITD indicator in some relationships to the proximity distance,say the closer the hand, the brighter or more intense is the FITDindicator. The FITD indicator may be part of the button to be pressedwhen activating the pb switch.

This proximity based FITD indication may continue for a period of timeand may be discontinued a certain period of time after the proximitysignal has disappeared. Of course the operation may be simpler and theproximity signal may be an indication upon which the microchip activatesthe FITD indicator for a predetermined period, at a predetermined levelor only while the user is within a given proximity and the proximitysignal is present.

If the user then proceeds and activates the pb MMI switch, the FITDindicator in a preferred embodiment may be deactivated or switched toanother level or functional mode under control of the microchip, and themain energy consuming load may be activated by this pb switchactivation. The microchip controlling the operational modes may, in apreferred case, be integrated With the microchip interpreting the MMIsignals and realizing the touch sensor implementation.

Both the touch sensor and the pb switch signals may be interpreted interms of time duration of activation and/or deactivation signals and/orsequences of signals.

In simple terms the physical switch (pb) surface that a user must press,may glow (in the dark) when the user brings his/her hand close to theswitch. Specific illumination of the pb switch, under these conditions,assists the user in the location of the switch that must be activated inorder to start operation. The pb switch in a specific embodiment muststill be pressed to activate the light or main energy consuming load.

The FITD indicator may also be active (at a higher level) after anautomatic shut-off has occurred or at least for a short periodthereafter.

In another embodiment the activation by proximity results in a differentoperational mode or for a different time duration than activation by thepb switch.

In a specific embodiment the switching circuit including a module whichhouses or comprises the pb switch, the touch sensor, the microchip, theenergy consuming load and a FITD indicator that is active when the loadis not activated by the user. All the elements may be in close proximityof each other. In another embodiment the elements are each attached toand/or enclosed in the module which may be of any suitable shape or formwhich depends, at least, on the specific application.

The energy consuming load may for example, but not limited to, be anelectric motor, a light generating element or a heat generating unit.The power source may be mains power or an exhaustible power source suchas a battery or a fuel cell.

In a further embodiment, in accordance with a preceding description, themicrochip controls an automatic delayed shut-off function resulting inthe load being deactivated a predetermined period after it wasactivated. The microchip also gives a warning of such imminent shut-offa short period prior to the shut-off. This advance auto shut-off warningmay be a single indication, a reduction in power and/or a sequence orrepetitive sequence of warning indications. In a specific embodiment themicrochip accepts a proximity signal as enough or sufficient indicationthat the user wishes to extend operation. This may be specificallyduring or after the warning signals have been activated. In simpleterms, for example, once the warning has been given that auto-shut-offis imminent, but before auto-shut-down occurs, the user can reset theauto-off timer by the wave of a hand past the sensor and an actuation ofthe pb switch is then not necessarily required to extend the period ofoperation. Feedback may be given to the user that the extension ofoperation has been accepted by varying operation of the load or someother indication. An example may be that during the advance auto-offwarning period the power to the load is reduced and upon resetting thetimer, the original power level is restored. In a variation of thisembodiment the FITD indicator that operates in response to the proximitysignal(s) also gives an indication of the power source level. Forexample an activating/deactivating sequence or varying colors may beused to indicate the power level.

The combined touch sensor and pb switch technology may also be used in aheadlamp or flashlight technology. Again proximity may activate the loador FITD indicator. The load may for example be activated at a reducedpower level, or any activation may only be for a very short period oftime. In some embodiments the proximity or touch sensor may be used forsome commands but not for others, for example in a specific embodimentthe touch sensor may not activate or deactivate the flashlight but itcan cancel an imminent auto-shut-down. The same techniques can beimplemented for the interior light (or map light) in a vehicle.

It is also possible that the pb switch can affect or activate functionsconcerning the general operation of the touch sensor. For example, thetouch sensor may be forced to adjust its calibration by activations ofthe pb switch.

In another embodiment a power source (battery) level indicator may beactivated whilst a proximity signal is active. This may enable a personto immediately notice the battery level when a product such as anelectric tooth brush, shaver, flashlight or other battery operatedproduct is picked up. Again, this indication may be switched off after aperiod of time. It is also possible that a low power indication orwarning is given only when a proximity detection is made, tospecifically stand out, when the proximity sensor is triggered.

In a further embodiment the electronics for the proximity touch sensorand a find-in-the-dark indicator are embedded in the casing of atraditional switch mechanism. This may be for example a switch for thedefrosting of a window in a vehicle, a turn signal indicator activationmechanism or a window wiper activation lever. When the proximity of abody part (e.g. finger) or another element is detected, thefind-in-the-dark indicator is activated in a mode different from normal.For example, it may be normally off and upon the proximity detection thefind-in-the-dark indicator may be activated; or it may normally be on ina low mode and upon the proximity detection, the find-in-the-darkindicator may be activated in a higher power or more prominent mode. Thefind-in-the-dark indicator may be specifically designed to illuminatethe contact area of the switch in the vicinity where the user mustphysically make contact to activate the switch. In some cases, e.g. alever used to operate a wiper or turn signal indicator, the illuminationmay be on a front side of the lever to be visible, whilst the contactfrom the user may be from the bottom, top, side, back or any otherdirection. An important aspect is that the location of a specificselection mechanism, which enables a specific function to be activated,is indicated to the user before the mechanism is actuated. Alternativelyexpressed the specific function to be activated by a specific selectionmechanism is indicated to the user before the function is selected. Thismay help prevent accidental activation of a wiper when a turn signal wasdesired and vice versa. Of course another indication (e.g. audio) mayalso be used to alert the user as to what switch is being approached orin proximity of a body part. In each instance a second indicator can beused in place of the FITD, or in addition to the FITD. The secondindicator is under the control of the microchip and is used to give theuser information about a switch near, or combined with, the proximitydetection sensor.

It is also proposed that the proximity switch be used to guide the usertowards a button or a sequence of buttons likely to be operated next.For example if a radio is installed with this invention and in an offstate, the detection of a user finger in proximity of the radio willilluminate the on switch and possibly no other switch, whereas aproximity detection when already on, will illuminate the off switch orvolume control switch but not the on switch. In a sense this inventionwill intuitively lead the user through the next logical options when theswitches are approached.

It is also possible for a function or load be temporally selected, saywhilst the proximity detection is made, but to activate the loadpermanently or for an extended period of time even if the proximitydetection is cancelled, the pb switch must be operated.

The aforementioned functions also apply to a mains system with a mainsswitch fitted with a find-in-the-dark indicator and touch sensorinterface or with mains and the system as described previously (FIGS.14, 15) wherein dc Voltage is used to interface with the user and thisswitch, that is typically a pb switch, is then augmented with a touchsensor interface that functions in combination as described above.

It is also possible for the touch sensor proximity interface pluselectronics to control some of the other described functions to be builtinto a traditional type switch that is for example typically found in acar or in a house. In some embodiments the touch sensor may switch theload on but not off or vice versa.

While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have beendescribed in detail, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skillin the art that further changes and modifications may be made to theembodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention as claimed.

1. An interface unit for use with a power source to control a selectionof functions, said interface unit comprising: (a) a switch, wherein theswitch is not a serial element of a circuit conducting power from thepower source to a product, and wherein the switch is a touch sensorstructure that forms a user interface; and (b) a microchip having atleast a first input coupled to the touch sensor; wherein the microchipis configured for controlling or providing information for selectingmultiple operational modes of the product or a load in response tosignals received through said first input; wherein the microchip, inresponse to the signals received from the touch sensor, distinguishesbetween proximity and physical contact events as detected by the touchsensor; and wherein the microchip selects different functions inresponse to the signals indicating the physical contact or the proximitydetection.
 2. The interface unit of claim 1, wherein the microchipactivates a visible indicator in response to the proximity detectionsignal without activating a change in operation of the product.
 3. Theinterface unit of claim 2, wherein the interface unit, the power source,the load and the visible indicator are all attached to or enclosed in ahousing.
 4. The interface unit of claim 3, wherein the load is anelectric motor forming part of a product and wherein the proximity andtouch signals cause the microchip to give a visible indication of thepower source level when the electric motor is not running.
 5. Theinterface unit of claim 4, wherein the microchip is further configuredto provide an auto-off action of a function that was activated inresponse to an activation signal received from the switch.
 6. Theinterface unit of claim 5, wherein the mode of operation that isselected by the microchip in response to touch events depends on acombination of at least two of the following parameters: (a) the numberof touch activations; (b) the period of a touch activation; and (c) theperiods between touch activations.
 7. The interface unit of claim 2,wherein the microchip controls an automatic delayed switch-off functionactivated in response to an activation command received through saidtouch sensor.
 8. The interface unit of claim 7, further comprising acasing and wherein the interface unit, the visible indicator and theload are each attached to or enclosed in the casing.
 9. The interfaceunit of claim 2, wherein the microchip, in response to signals from thetouch sensor, controls a gradually varying flow of power to the load,and wherein the flow of power is a function of the timing of the switchsignals.
 10. The interface unit of claim 2, wherein the indicator thatindicates proximity detection also provides an indication of the stateof the product that is associated with the interface unit.
 11. Theinterface unit of claim 2, wherein the microchip also controls anautomatic delayed switch-off of a function that was activated inresponse to an activation command and an advance auto-off warning signalto indicate the auto delayed switch off is imminent.
 12. The interfaceunit of claim 11, wherein the microchip is further configured to accepta proximity detection signal to reset the auto-off timing sequence onlyafter the advance auto off warning signal has been activated.
 13. Theinterface unit of claim 2, further comprising multiple switches, whereinthe microchip controls the indicator to show proximity and/or physicalcontact detection and also to provide information to the user about theswitches of associated function selections that are near the point ofproximity/physical contact.
 14. The interface unit of claim 13, whereinthe unit comprises electromechanical switches and the touch and/orproximity detection signals cause the microchip to control at least oneindicator to convey information to the user about the functions and/orselections associated with the electromechanical switches.
 15. Theinterface unit of claim 2, wherein the indicator is also used for otherfunctions but changes mode or intensity to indicate a proximitydetection.
 16. The interface unit of claim 15, wherein the intensity ofthe indicator changes in relation to a proximity distance.
 17. Theinterface unit of claim 2, wherein the indicator provides an indicationof the battery power level.
 18. The interface unit claim 2, wherein theindicator provides information to the user that will assist in guidingfurther user selections through physical touch.
 19. The interface unitof claim 2, wherein the user interface comprises multiple switches andwherein upon detection of a proximity event said indicator guides theuser through next logical options.
 20. The interface unit of claim 2,wherein the unit comprises at least one electromechanical switch and theindicator is activated in response to the touch sensor signals to guidethe user in terms of position and/or function of the electromechanicalswitch.
 21. The interface unit of claim 2, wherein the mode of operationthat is selected by the microchip in response to touch events depends ona combination of at least two of the following parameters: (a) thenumber of touch activations; (b) the period of a touch activation; and(c) the periods between touch activations.
 22. The interface unit ofclaim 1, wherein the microchip in response to a proximity detectionsignal, controls an indication to the user that relates to the state ofthe product that is associated with the interface unit, without changingthe operational state of said product.
 23. The interface unit accordingto claim 1 with multiple user switch inputs being electromechanical andtouch sensor structure, wherein at least some switches are of touchsensor type structure for detecting proximity and/or physical contact,and wherein the interface unit further provides an indication to a userwhen proximity occurs, and wherein: (a) the proximity indicationprovides information to the user concerning the state of the product;and (b) the information about the state of the product enabling the userto make a better selection of which switch to operate next, through aphysical touch.
 24. An interface unit according to claim 1 with multipleuser switch inputs being electromechanical and touch sensor structure,wherein at least some switches are of touch sensor type structure fordetecting proximity and/or touch, and wherein the interface unitactivates an indication to a user when proximity/touch occurs, andwherein: (a) the indication provides information to the user about thefunctions associated with the electromechanical switch or switchesrelated to the touch sensor that detected the proximity/touch, before anelectromechanical switch is operated for function selection.
 25. Amethod of using a touch sensor circuit that forms a user interfaceswitch as part of a product, wherein a microchip and a switch are usedin the implementation, and the switch is not a serial element of acircuit conducting power from the power source to the product; themethod comprising the steps of (1) using touch sensor signals todifferentiate between proximity and physical contact, and (2) selectinga different set of functions for physical contact and proximitydetection events.
 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising a stepof activating a visible indicator when a proximity signal is detectedand wherein such indication guides the user towards a next logicalswitch selection to be made through physical contact.
 27. The method ofclaim 26, wherein the method also comprises the conveyance ofinformation to the user through the indication of a state of the productor the functions associated with the switch.
 28. The method according toclaim 26 further comprising a step of selecting a mode of operationbased on a touch event that depends on at least two of the followingparameters: (a) the number of touch activations; (b) the period of atouch activation; and (c) the periods between touch activations.
 29. Themethod according to claim 26, further comprising a step of selecting amode of operation that depends on the number of touch events and if theperiod of non-activation of the switch since a previous touch eventexceeds a minimum period, the touch event will result in a switch offaction.
 30. The method of claim 25, wherein an indicator is used toindicate a power source level in response to a proximity event when aload associated with a product is not active.
 31. The method accordingto claim 25, wherein a touch sensor circuit sense plate is part of anelectromechanical switch construction and the method further comprises astep of controlling an indication based on the specific proximity and/orphysical touch detection without permanently selecting the functionassociated with the electromechanical switch.